Bespoke Hunter was established when Rowena noticed that many visitors arrive in the region, frazzled from a busy work life, confused about where to go & what to do on the break they had booked. They wanted to be able to make the most of their escape but didn’t know where start.

ABOUT

Bespoke Hunter was established by Rowena (Hawkins) Henderson when she noticed that many visitors arrive in the region, frazzled from a busy work life, confused about where to go & what to do on the break they had booked.

"I saw an opportunity to help visitors to make the most of their escape. Making suggestions, booking services, introducing locals & unlocking the region's secrets.

By talking to upcoming visitors to understand what makes an escape special for them, I knew I could tailor a unique Itinerary, at the same time showcasing the region & its people. I could take away the stress of deciding where to go, or of missing out on a table at their bucket list or favourite restaurant. I could also add that special sparkle with a Bespoke Experience when required ." - Rowena

Brief Bio

Rowena has worked as a Marketer, Business Development Manager, Hospitality Manager & Event Manager with large & small wine companies, restaurants & including 5 years as the General Manager for the Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association.

Rowena has lived in the Hunter for most of her life & is now living in Newcastle. She loves food, wine, travel, arts, nature & loves sharing this with visitors.

Endorsements

Rowena is a Hunter woman through & through. She knows the valley, its people, the venues & the sites that create the “money can’t buy experiences”. Her expertise in hospitality will ensure she showcases the Hunter Valley at its best.

— Neil McGuigan CEO Australian Vintage

I’ve worked with Rowena on regional wine & tourism marketing & event committees; I’ve see first hand her ability to create, organise & deliver time & time again.

For many years I worked very closely with Rowena to create and deliver high end experiences and travel itineraries for top tier media visiting the Hunter Region. She is extremely well connected and organised, and knows the region like no-one else I know. She’s creative, understands people’s needs clearly and delivers unique and tailored experiences to perfection time and time again. I can’t wait to work with her again. Nothing is a challenge for Rowena and everything is done with a smile. She’s a true professional and you’ll just want to keep using her services over and over.

— Sharon Zeev Poole, Director, Agent99 Public Relations

Newcastle is an evolving city offering fabulous experiences. Rowena’s knowledge & enthusiasm for Newcastle, & her skills in planning unique itineraries & experiences, will unlock the secrets the city holds.

— Simon Glover, General Manager, Novotel Newcastle Beach

Rowena’s enthusiasm for Newcastle, the lifestyle it offers & uncovering its secrets is an asset to anyone wishing to visit the city. As a newer resident to the city she has uncovered & explored the many experiences & introduced herself to the community. This along with her attention to detail & understanding of how to plan an itinerary to meet the visitor’s needs is a win for those visiting Newcastle

·Tailor a unique itinerary for you to experience the region through the eyes of a local.

I am not a travel agent or a tour guide. I am your dedicated Hunter Valley Itinerary & Experience Planner. I’ll work with you (sharing local expertise, connections & knowledge) to tailor aunique itinerary or experience; taking away the stress & time it takes to plan a perfect Hunter Valley escape, so all you have to do is relax & enjoy.